Page 21 of Wanted By the Cartel

"This isn't just about the Harvesters anymore," Elena argued. "Your mate—"

"Choose your next words very carefully," I warned, letting my eyes shift to wolf-gold. The air crackled with tension.

She swallowed hard but continued. "Your mate's safety has become our only priority. The cartel's original purpose—"

"Has evolved," I finished. "You want to talk about the cartel's purpose? Fine. Let me be crystal clear: The Nightshade Wolves now exist for one reason—to protect my family. Anyone who has a problem with that is welcome to leave. Immediately."

The threat in my voice was unmistakable. Several members shifted uncomfortably. I didn't have time to keep arguing. We should be focusing on protecting ourselves and nothing else.

"No one's leaving," Viktor said, trying to calm everyone down, but I didn't know if it was going to work. "But we need to address the growing dissent among the rank and file. They don't understand the changes."

"Then make them understand." My voice was cold. "Tell them about Cooper, about what happens to traitors. Show them the photos."

Cooper's fate had been... instructive. The memory of dealing with him still brought satisfaction.

"Most of our people are loyal," Romano admitted grudgingly. "But they're also ambitious. They joined a cartel, not a private security force. You need to have that in mind, boss."

I laughed, but there was no humor in it. "You think that's all we've become? Look closer. Every rival who tests us dies. Every business that abandons us fails. We're not just protecting—we're sending a message. Cross the Nightshade Wolves, and you won't live to regret it."

"And what about the ones who haven't crossed us?" Elena asked. "Our allies? They're getting nervous."

"I don't care. Let them be nervous. Let them wonder what I'll do to protect what's mine. Fear is a powerful motivator."

The room fell silent as they absorbed my words. I could smell their unease, their reluctant acceptance. They were starting to understand that this wasn't a temporary situation—this was the new normal.

As long as I was in charge, this was how things were going to be like. If they didn’t like it, they could try to remove me from my position, but it wouldn’t work.

"Sir," Viktor stepped forward. "What are your orders regarding the southern district? The Shannon crew is asking for protection payments again."

I smiled, and several people flinched. They knew that smile. "Tell them they have twenty-four hours to clear out. That territory is too close to Mae's new clinic for my comfort. If they resist, burn them out."

"That'll start a turf war," Romano warned.

"No," I corrected him. "It'll end one before it begins. I won't have potential threats operating anywhere near my mate or our healer."

More uneasy glances were exchanged. I'd had enough.

"Listen here, you fools. This cartel will change. It will adapt. Some of you won't like it. Some of you will resist it. But know this—I will sacrifice everything and everyone to keep my family safe. If that makes you uncomfortable, there's the door. Just remember – you either leave this organization in a coffin, or you leave with nothing."

The message was received. One by one, they nodded, even Romano and Elena. They might not like it, but they understood. The Nightshade Wolves were transforming, becoming something new, something more focused and deadly.

And if anyone thought they could use this transformation as an opportunity to challenge my leadership... well, Cooper's fate would seem merciful in comparison.

They didn't want to get on my bad side. There was a reason I remained in power: I was stronger than all of them combined.

"Viktor," I called as the others filed out. "Double the guards on Lyrian's wing. I smell fear in this room, and fear makes people stupid."

He nodded, understanding what I wasn't saying. Watch them all. Trust no one.

Chapter 11

Lyrian

The night was dark as Zoren gently pushed me onto my back on the bed, his tall form looming over me. After everything that happened between us, we deserved this moment of relative peace.

His alpha presence filled the room, as usual, but tonight, it felt different—more intimate and protective than dominant. I knew he understood how vulnerable I felt after everything that had happened with the Lunar Harvesters, even though some time had already passed since.

He leaned down, pressing soft kisses along my jawline as his large hands traced patterns on my chest. "Let me take care of you. I know you need that. I can feel it," Zoren murmured against my skin, his deep voice husky with desire and concern.

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